Final two rounds key to Shakey’s future

Shane Byrne has admitted that his hopes of becoming a regular podium man in 2010 have failed to materialise after struggling to replicate his practice and testing pace in the races.

With just two rounds of the championship remaining, Byrne sits 12th in the standings and knows that he has to secure good results in an effort to impress any future employer in the WSB paddock.

Last time out in Nurburgring, Byrne looked set for a good weekend having been a front runner throughout practice and qualifying, but saw his hopes of a strong result wrecked when he crashed out of Superpole.

He said: “When I came to WSB in 2009 I saw it as a grafting year where I had to learn the tracks and learn the championship and I felt that I achieved that.

“In 2010 I’ve got a stronger bike and after getting a podium in my first year my aim was to be on the podium at least five times and then get myself in a position to be able to fight for the championship in 2011.

“Unfortunately it hasn’t worked out like that but there is still time to turn it around.”

The next round of the World Superbike championship takes place at Ducati’s home track – Imola.

“The 1200cc v-twin Ducati is traditionally well suited to the undulating track and Byrne will be looking for a strong result in an effort to secure himself a competitive ride in the championship next season.